How can I determine if my ankle is broken or just sprained?

When you hurt your ankle, it can be tricky to know if it is broken or just sprained. Both can cause pain, swelling, and trouble walking. Sometimes, even doctors can mistake a broken foot for a sprained ankle.

Here are some things to think about:

• Pain Level: A broken ankle might hurt more than a sprain. But both can hurt a lot.
• Swelling and Bruising: Both injuries can cause swelling and bruising. If the swelling is very bad or the ankle looks deformed, it might be broken.
• Walking: If you can't put any weight on your foot, it might be broken. But sprains can also make walking hard.

If you're not sure, it's best to see a doctor. They can do tests like an X-ray to see if a bone is broken. Remember, even small bones in the foot can break, and they might be missed if not checked carefully. If you hurt your ankle while doing something like skiing or high impact activities, it's especially important to get it checked because these activities can cause serious injuries.